Safety and Emergency Procedures Flashcards

When a fertilizer spill occurs near a waterway, what is the FIRST action an applicator should take?

Answer: Contain the spill to prevent it from reaching the water

Containment is the immediate priority to prevent environmental contamination of waterways.

Which document must be immediately accessible to emergency responders at a fertilizer application site?

Answer: Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for all chemicals on site

SDS sheets provide emergency responders with hazard, first aid, and handling information for all chemicals present.

An applicator inhales anhydrous ammonia fumes. What is the recommended first aid?

Answer: Move to fresh air and flush eyes/skin with water for 15-20 minutes

Moving to fresh air and flushing exposed areas with water for at least 15-20 minutes is the standard first response for anhydrous ammonia exposure.

What is the purpose of a secondary containment system around fertilizer storage tanks?

Answer: To capture leaks or spills before they reach the environment

Secondary containment is designed to hold spilled material, preventing it from contaminating soil or water resources.

Under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, employees who handle fertilizers must receive training on:

Answer: The physical and health hazards of chemicals they work with

OSHA HazCom requires workers to be trained on chemical hazards, protective measures, and how to read SDS and labels.

When should a fertilizer applicator contact the National Response Center (NRC)?

Answer: When a reportable quantity of a hazardous substance is released

Federal law requires notification to the NRC (1-800-424-8802) when releases of hazardous substances meet or exceed reportable quantities.

Which type of fire extinguisher is generally appropriate for fires involving dry fertilizer materials?

Answer: Class A or dry chemical extinguisher

Class A or dry chemical extinguishers are suitable for ordinary combustible materials including dry fertilizer fires not involving oxidizers.